In our previous article, we introduced the air starvation issue plaguing high-performance Mercury Racing engines like the 300R and how VÉHICULE x KOSHI engine air scoops are engineered to solve it. These precision-crafted scoops promise to eliminate performance bottlenecks by delivering dense, high-velocity air to the engine at speeds above 80 mph. Now, we’ve taken the next step: testing these scoops in action on a powerboat. Watch the embedded video below to see world champion powerboat racer Jan-Cees Korteland put VÉHICULE air scoops to the test on the water, and read on for the results.











From Theory to Reality: On-Water Testing





After installing VÉHICULE air scoops on a Mercury 300R-powered vessel, Korteland and our team hit the water to evaluate their real-world impact. The test boat, a high-performance racing hull, was pushed to its limits across a range of speeds to simulate the demands of competitive racing. Here’s what we found:





Key Performance Gains






  • Improved Acceleration: The ram-air effect of the scoops provided a noticeable surge in throttle response, allowing the boat to accelerate faster out of turns and hit top speeds more quickly.




  • Increased Speed: With the scoops installed, the Mercury 300R increased its speed by 1–2kmh.





Real-World Observations





Korteland noted that the boat felt more alive with the scoops, particularly at high speeds where the stock intake previously struggled. The seamless integration of the carbon fiber scoops with the engine cowl ensured no added drag or handling issues, preserving the boat’s agility. Even in choppy conditions, the scoops performed flawlessly, channeling air efficiently without water ingress—a testament to their marine-optimized design.





Why This Matters for Boating Enthusiasts





The on-water testing confirms that VÉHICULE engine air scoops are more than just a theoretical fix. For racers, these scoops unlock the Mercury 300R’s full potential, shaving seconds off lap times and providing a competitive edge. For recreational boaters, they offer reliability and performance gains that enhance the thrill of high-speed cruising. Compatible with Mercury Racing 300R, 450R, 500R, and Verado V10 400 engines, these scoops are a versatile upgrade for any performance-driven setup.


Written by: Vehicule Magazine
VÉHICULE Magazine is an ad-free publication celebrating the high-performance world of offshore powerboating and cutting-edge transportation. With a focus on the intersection of design, speed, and culture, it delivers carefully curated, collector-worthy print editions handcrafted in Germany. Through exclusive content and a bold editorial style, VÉHICULE explores the artistry and innovation driving the high-performance lifestyle, earning praise as “brash, cultured, and curious” by VOGUE.